Design Guidelines

The first question one should ask before delving into a sauna project is what is the principal use for your upcoming heated space. There are many different ways to enjoy a sauna; saunas are not the same, and according to the intended purpose design parameters can vary.

Infrared saunas are used mostly for the sauna’s therapeutic qualities, whereas in a traditional Finnish sauna the sauna is used not only for the wellness aspects but more so for the wholesome sauna experience. The more one gets to know sauna, the more it deals with water, air and places to relax. Even if you just need a sauna to relax your muscles after a good exercise, it still takes some consideration.

When designing a sauna, you need to ask yourself whether this is the location where you want to spend a long time. Time inside the heated sauna room is limited, but particularly with a traditional sauna it is the repetition of sauna/cooling off that makes a good sauna experience. You want to relax between bathing sessions and you want to do it comfortably. The best thing to do is to be able to go outdoors for a break.

Whether your choice is a traditional Finnish sauna, or an infrared sauna, please consider the following issues. Some manufacturers also offer hybrids, where you can enjoy both ways of sauna bathing.

A sauna room needs a convenient access to:

A showerA place to changeA place to cool off: a lounge rather with furnishings that are washable Preferably, a bathroom, a door or window to outdoors and acoustic privacy.

1) Infrared Sauna

In an infrared room, while there is less heat outside your body and the only water you are going to deal with is the water you drink, you will still perspire. You are also better off taking a break while enjoying the therapy and you don’t want to wander very far to do this.

2) Traditional Sauna

In a traditional sauna it is recommended that you sprinkle water on to the heater rocks to control humidity. If you are like many, who like to use even more water inside the sauna, a floor drain in the sauna room should be considered.

3) How your dealer will help you

A reputable dealer can provide the actual kit components and installation to construct a proper sauna room.

A good sauna room has the door, heater, and vent locations to agree with one another - and at the same time allows maximum bench or platform area, and minimum floor area.

In a traditional sauna, using either an electric or wood-fired heater, the room must be able to breathe and have a good heat distribution, so proper ventilation is important. Although there may be exceptions to the rule, electric stove distributors in the US will want an opening below the heater for an inlet, and an opening on the opposite wall just below the upper bench for an outlet. This permits good air exchange without loss of heat and humidity.

While daylight inside a sauna is always nice, all sauna manufacturers have various electric lighting solutions to match your taste.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this website is to provide general guidance, ideas, and useful tips. We do not provide professional advice and this website should not be relied upon as such a source. Please always consult a qualified professional expert prior to building or acquiring a sauna or any accessory related to sauna bathing such as a shower, cold plunge, place to rest, etc. Always read and follow any relevant manuals and safety instructions and consult a doctor before using a sauna to determine if sauna bathing and/or associated activities are appropriate and safe for you.